This study investigated the effectiveness of a 10-week positive psychology-based, spiritually oriented group counseling program on male prisoners’ well-being, hope, and forgiveness.
Methods:
Using a pretest–posttest control group design between June and August 2024, 28 participants were assigned to intervention (n = 14) and control (n = 14) groups at Istanbul open correctional institution. Data were collected via PERMA Well-Being, Hope, and Heartland Forgiveness scales.
Results:
Quantitative results showed significant increases in well-being (p = .048, d = 0.68) and hope (p = .037, d = 0.72) within the experimental group, but not forgiveness (p > .05). However, compared to the control group, these differences were not statistically significant. Conversely, qualitative analysis revealed perceived benefits across psychological, emotional, relational, and spiritual domains, with suggestions for longer programs.
Discussion:
Findings suggest that spiritually oriented counseling partially supports well-being and hope, while forgiveness may require more intensive intervention.
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